Applicability of Boston University approach for predicting permanent teeth size in a sample of children

Background Accurate prediction of the mesiodistal widths of canines and premolars in children with primary dentition facilitates interception of malocclusion at an early age. Boston University (BU) approach is one, that is, based on primary teeth for predicting canine and premolar dimensions. Aim The aim was to evaluate the size of unerupted canines and premolars using BU approach in comparison to Tanaka and Johnston (T/J) analysis in a sample of Egyptian children. Materials and Methods A total of 300 children (150 boys and 150 girls) with an average age (7–10) years with existence of primary maxillary and mandibular canines and primary first molars and eruption of all permanent mandibular incisors, free from caries, restoration or any abnormalities in size, shape or structure of teeth. The mesiodistal widths of the required teeth were measured using digital caliper from which widths of permanent canines and premolars were predicted using both T/J analysis and BU approach. Results There was a strong positive correlation between BU approach and T/J analysis when used for children in mixed dentition stage. Conclusion Application of BU approach as a prediction method of permanent teeth dimension in a sample of Egyptian children from Tanta city in the mixed dentition stage revealed a strong correlation with the widely applied T/J analysis.